Review-Jolson and Co
April 14, 2009
Reviewed: 14th April 2009
Venue: Theatre Royal, Newcastle
A play looking back at the life of Asa Yoelson, born in Lithuania in 1886, at first glance does not seem to be the most riveting of evenings at the theatre, but change the name of the lead character , as the man did himself, to Al Jolson and it is a different story.
Allan Stewart, as Jolson, gives a tour de force in the role, which looks back in detail over the entertainer’s life. His performance alone warrants this production having life after its present tour finishes and he must surely be nominated for an award as he gives one of the best performances I have seen in a theatre for a long-time. But the show does not just rely on him alone as from casting to set design and direction this show is pure class.
The show opens backstage at the Winter Gardens Theatre, New York, not long before Jolson’s death as he takes part in a radio broadcast. His life is told in flashbacks, with Donna Steele (who rose from the chorus line to star status herself as she took over the lead in Thoroughly Modern Millie and recently toured in Shout!) and Christopher Howell making up the three strong cast. However ,it is not until the curtain call that a lot of the audience realise how small the cast actually is, so impressive is Steele in her many disguises and she often leaves the stage to a round of applause.
On stage we have a first class seven piece band, who are kept out of site until just prior to the interval, taking us through seventeen of Jolson’s songs.
Stewart, who we know is a brilliant impressionist, is moving in his portrayal of the 20s icon as the show which pulls few punches, leaves us believing we have seen under the skin of one the world’s greatest entertainers. Of course the musical numbers are what counts in a production of this type and Stewart, along with his co-stars, are equally at home with jazz swing numbers or emotional ballads. There are plenty of chances to sing along with the likes of Sonny Boy, Swanee, Babyface, My Mammy and Toot Toot Tootsie but sitting back watching Stewart perform these as Jolson is something not to be missed.
Designer, Morgan Large, has produced a simple but effective setting that allows scenery to quickly glide in to place while the band remain hidden away until required. Director , Ed Curtis, could ask no more of his cast who bring this show, written by Stephen Mo Hanan and Jay Berkow, so vividly to life. While Head of Wardrobe is Chris Hayward, who has become the Theatre Royals own regular panto dame.
It is all too rare to know that you are watching something different and extra special, but this show provides that rare theatrical treat. This production is a class affair which will not only pack in the grandmas and granddads but deservedly introduce Jolson to a whole new audience.
Even a five star rating does not do justice to this brilliant show
John Dixon
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